Automatic fire protection systems detect, indicate, and fight a fire as soon as this starts. The new VdS Guidelines 2896 establish a new standard for the planning and installation of fire protection technology especially in living zones.

The probability for German residents of nursing homes to die in a fire is five times higher than that of the total population – this has been confirmed by studies of the University Magdeburg-Stendal. The high death toll due to fires in living zones and hang-out areas started a discussion about supplementary protection measures with fire protection technology. The Scandinavian countries as well as Australia and the U.S.A. are already using automatic extinguishing systems to protect nursing homes and, consequently, could already reduce the mortality rate by up to 82 % (study by NFPA).

VdS, Europe`s No. 1 in fire protection, also responded to the alarming figures and has now published guidelines especially for the protection of residential occupancies (VdS 2896). As always, the new Guidelines present precise requirements for the planning and instalation of fire detection and fire alarm systems as well as extinguishing systems, especially in nursing homes, hotels, homes for the elderly, halls of residence, kindergartens, and schools.

"The new Guidelines define precise requirements for the installation, execution, and maintenance of fire protection systems in the corresponding type of block and building utilisation", pointed out Claas Baier, head of the VdS Inspection services and expert in charge of the new Guidelines. "Thanks to the practically oriented support delivered by the VdS 2896, those in charge can ensure that fires in living zones and hang-out areas are detected immediately, that the persons at risk as well as the providers of assistance are alerted, and that fires can be fought right from the beginning".

See www.vds-shop.de to get the new VdS 2896.

Caption “Residential”: VdS Guidelines establish international standards and now are also of assistance in designing the optimum fire protection for residential occupancies (picture showing a sprinkler test in the VdS laboratories)

About VdS
VdS is one of the world`s most renowned and prestigious institutions for corporate security and safety, specialising in fire protection, security and natural disaster prevention. The services include risk assessments, on-site inspections, certifications of products, companies and professionals, and a comprehensive training and publication program.
The VdS seal of approval enjoys an excellent reputation in professional circles and among decision makers. VdS clients include industrial and commercial businesses in all industries, leading international manufacturers, system houses and professional specialists, as well as risk-conscious banks and insurers.

Further information: www.vds.de/en
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